Trainer Gift Guide
Every year, I struggle to come up with the perfect gift for my trainer! I want her to know how much she’s appreciated, but she has just about everything she needs – even heated boots and gloves! Last year, I made her an equestrian door hanger, some Christmas cookies and some treats for the horses. This year, I decided to start early and list all of my ideas before I decide on just one. I will say that while many trainers would appreciate horse themed goodies like socks, t-shirts, sweaters, etc… it’s important to keep in mind that they do have a life outside of the barn. You can definitely merge the two, but it’s also OK to consider giving something like a restaurant gift certificate or treating him/her to a spa day. Who doesn’t love that? Many people give candy and other baked goods at Christmas, but if your trainer is on a diet, it’s probably best to steer away from those things. Something else to consider is your trainer’s personality and what their needs may be. If you see something that needs replacing around the barn or hear your trainer say things like “It would be nice to have….”, take note! A lot of students and/or boarders often go in together to get their trainer a much nicer gift, so if there’s something they may need that’s more than you want to spend, consider asking a few barn buddies to chip in!
And now I give to you, the Trainer Gift Guide…
1. Smart phone gloves – You can’t ever have enough gloves! These are so useful, not only in the barn but when you’re out running errands or at an outdoor event! Most large retailers, such as Target, carry these now and you can find outdoor varieties at your local REI or sports store. Even Ralph Lauren is getting in on this helpful winter staple!
2. Travel Coffee Mug – Starbucks has a wonderful selection of stainless steel mugs that last forever! You can fill the mug with peppermints and a Starbucks gift card to ensure that your trainer’s coffee fix is fulfilled!
3. Gift card to tack shop/Tractor Supply/feed store – Why not give your trainer something they need this year and get them a gift card to your local feed store or tack shop. Don’t know where they buy feed or hay? Tractor Supply is a great option because they’re everywhere and they have just about everything from fly spray to horse treats, fencing supplies and even boots!
4. Monogrammed tote or gear bag for shows – Bags this size are perfect for hauling around wraps, helmets, a change of clothes, snacks, and whatever else won’t fit in the tack trunk for shows! They’re also really great to use as overnight bags!
5. Leather halter with nameplate – If your trainer’s horse doesn’t already have one of these, it’s such a wonderful gift and very helpful to have at shows or around the barn!
6. Personalized Note Cards – These are a best seller in my Etsy shop, and it all started with me making a set of these for my trainer’s birthday last year! Everyone uses note cards and these are blank inside so they can be used for a variety of different occasions. Choose your monogram type and your color!
7. Dark Horse Chocolates – They’ve really thought of everything and even have gift boxes, tins and baskets with a variety of flavors and themes!
8. Relaxation basket – fill this with nice lotion, comfy socks, bubble bath, a rice pack or two (great for sore muscles after long days at the barn) and some hand warmers. Think about the things you’d appreciate after a long day or a particularly hard lesson. You can also add other little things like a relaxing classical music CD or a small tin of your favorite tea or hot cocoa!
9. Bit Blanket – These are fabulous for quickly warming up bits before you ride on cold days. They’re easy to store and they hardly take up any room at all. Perfect to bring with you to shows or clinics as well!
10. Gift card to his/her favorite restaurant – Even if your trainer loves to cook, some days are just too hectic to spend that much time in the kitchen. Even though it’s a popular gift this time of year, they’re always appreciated!
With all of the items on this list, you’re sure to find something great for your trainer this year! And if you’re looking for a card to go along with your great gift, check out these Christmas cards that are new in the Etsy shop this year:
I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic year to come!
